Putnam, CT
The charming New England town of Putnam, CT is nestled on the banks of the Quinebaug River in the northeast corner of the state. Originally known as Aspinock, the town was incorporated in 1855 from sections of the surrounding towns of Killingly, Pomfret, and Thompson, and named in honor of Revolutionary War General Israel Putnam. The town of Putnam is celebrated for its antique markets and boasts an “Arts & Al Fresco” motif – with a variety of restaurants, bars, breweries, cafes, galleries, boutiques, theaters, and more calling Putnam home.
Along The Trail
At just over 2-miles, the Putnam River Trail begins at Arch Street and winds its way north along the eastern shore of the Quinebaug River through woodlands and parks. Five historic exhibits are located along the trail commemorating Putnam’s railroad history, textile mills, and founding citizens.
There are a number of scenic views including Cargill Falls, as well as three bridges adjacent to the trail including a 200-foot pedestrian bridge built on the stone foundation of an old railroad trestle. While you’re in the neighborhood, we have some things to show you.
1. Putnam Lions Memorial Dog Park
16 Kennedy Drive
Off-leash large and small breed separated dog park with ample shade and benches, open dawn to dusk.
2. Storywalk [River Trail]
Combining reading with physical activity, the interactive story trail winds along the trail with laminated book pages posted on signs along the path – starting at the Riverview Marketplace Pavilion.
3. Sculptures on the River [River Trail]
Collection of woodland animals, abstract pieces and whimsical sculptures made possible by artist Dale Rogers.
4. Gertrude Chandler Warner Boxcar Children’s Museum
1 South Main Street
BoxcarChildrenMuseum.com
Dedicated to the life and work of Gertrude Chandler Warner, the author of The Boxcar Children books. Renovated in 2020, the museum is open on weekends from June through the beginning of Oct. – closed Labor Day weekend.
5. Theatre of Northeastern CT at The Bradley Playhouse
30 Front Street
TheBradleyPlayhouse.org
Providing years of extraordinary productions that have regaled generations of patrons.
Galleries [Downtown]
Representing local and regional artists in a range of works and mixed medias.
Boutique Shops
Discover a local business for all your needs. From clothing to accessories and jewelry, Putnam offers shoppers a unique experience of boutiques dotting the streets throughout the downtown and side-street areas.
- Providence Street
- Kennedy Drive
- Main Street
- School Street
Antique hunters from scavengers to connoisseurs will be delighted by the side-by-side shops in downtown.
6. Antiques Marketplace
109 Main Street
7. Jeremiah’s Antique Shop
26 Front Street
Events & Pop Ups
The towns various community events celebrate all that Putnam has to offer – from the arts to fine dining, boutique shopping, performances to live music. With annual street festivals and new ‘pop-up’ weekend events, Putnam welcomes weekend visitors to explore.
Putnam Saturday Farmers Market sets up shop every Saturday, 10:00am to 1:00pm – June to October, under the pavilion along the Quinebaug River at the south end of the Putnam River Trail [18 Kennedy Drive, Putnam, CT 06260]. The market features fresh produce from local farms, meats/eggs/dairy products, baked goods, and creations from area artisans.